From Kevin Pietersen to Anil Kumble: tributes paid for the legendary referee Dickie Bird after his death

The world of cricket cries the loss of a real legend, as a reputation England arbitrator Cock died at the age of 92. More than just a referee, Bird was a loved character for his integrity, his undoubted style and a simple charm that approved it to players and fans. His death marks the end of an era for a figure that was not only part of the history of cricket but an integral part of his heart and his soul.

Dickie Bird Storied career beyond the border

While his career as an arbitrator has brought him a world famous, Bird’s trip to Cricket began on the ground. He played 93 first class games as a right -handed throyer for Yorkshire And Leicestershire Before devoting his life to officiant. As an international arbitrator for more than two decades, Bird took place in 66 tests and 69 ODI.

He has engraved his name in history books by officiating in the first three finals of the ODI World Cup of men, a testimony of his reputation and his unrivaled confidence. His career arrived at an appropriate end in 1996, in a Lord test match which marked the international beginnings of Indian legends Surav Ganguly And Rahul Dravid. Beyond his official, his loyalty to his roots was clear because he proudly served as president of the Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

It is with deep sadness that the Yorkshire County Cricket Club announces the death of Harold Dennis “Dickie” Bird Mbe Obe, one of the most popular figures of the cricket, who died peacefully at home at the age of 92.

– Yorkshire CCC (@yorkshirecc) September 23, 2025

Dickie Bird: Man in white coat and a life lived for cricket

The bird was a man with simple tastes in a world that became more and more complex. He was famous for his aversion to modern technology, admitting to being “Technically disputed” And always preferring species to digital payments. This charming approach to the old school has extended to its love for tradition; Since the age of 14, he has meticulously maintained a personal archive of press clippings, adding each article written about his collection.

Despite the survival of a stroke and a pandemic, Bird lived a disciplined life, with regular exercise and walks, and found joy in simple pleasures like Scampi and onion rings. It was a familiar face, a man who cherished social interactions and was easily recognized by old friends and young fans. Bird’s passion for cricket was a matter for life. He said once he was famous that he was “Married to cricket” And his dedication was obvious in all aspects of his life. Even in his last years, he was traveling to watch his beloved Yorkshire game and was a life member of the Barnsley Football Club.

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Here’s how fans reacted:

Everyone in the Cricket Plan of England and Wales is deeply saddened to learn the death of Dickie Bird.

Pride Yorkshireman and a much appreciated referee, we will sorely miss.

Rest in peace, Dickie 🤍 pic.twitter.com/nhnf9y44ms

– England Cricket (@EnglandCcket) September 23, 2025

A small poem that I made for Dickie Bird; I read it on@BbcyorkshireThis afternoon. I wanted it to be loving and sentimental, as Dickie was. pic.twitter.com/9jgmnelg97

– Ian McMillan (@imcmillan) September 23, 2025

The MCC is deeply saddened to hear about the death of Harold “Dickie” Bird. Member of the honorary life of the club, Dickie had an illustrious career as an arbitrator and was one of the most popular officials in the history of the game.

He officiated in 66 male test games and we were … pic.twitter.com/r22nsrkcaz

– Lord’s Cricket Ground (@Homeofcricket) September 23, 2025

RIP Dickie Bird, 92.
The largest and most legendary referee in the history of cricket and a truly wonderful character. He loved the game with a rare and consumed passion, and the game loved this brilliantly professional, bubbling, emotional and perfectionist Yorkshireman. Sad news. pic.twitter.com/ylr7u5kokp

– Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 23, 2025

An emotional dickie bird wipes a tear after receiving an honorary guard by England and India at the start of his 66th and last test, Lord’s, June 20, 1996. He retired from the whole cricket at the end of the following summer pic.twitter.com/j81xslckik

– Historical cricket photos (@picturesporting) September 23, 2025

So sorry to learn that the Great Dickie Bird pulled strains. It was a national treasure and I was lucky to have shared extremely pleasant moments with him. At 92, he experienced a good round. Farewell friend. pic.twitter.com/yqwqjznpta

– David Cameron (@david_cameron) September 23, 2025

Sad to hear the death of the legendary referee Dickie Bird
One of the great cricket characters.
Supplied so much pleasure on the ground#Ripdickie pic.twitter.com/qg8ytchrgm

– Damien Fleming (@bowlologist) September 24, 2025

Dickie Bird, you absolutely legend from English cricket. May you rest in peace knowing that you were loved by all!
I had so many incredible moments with Dickie.
A remarkable character who we will miss a lot! 🙏🏽

– Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@ kP24) September 23, 2025

Cricket has lost one of its brightest souls. Dickie Bird has not only sported the game – he owned it with heart, spirit and class. Rest in peace, legend.

– Anil Kumble (@ anilkuble1074) September 23, 2025

Goodbye to Harold “ Dickie ‘Bird

Yorkshireman and one of the most popular referees in the cricket, he stood large in the middle during the decades, officiating in 3 finals of the World Cup. Famous to stop the game to let the pigeons pass and he had the game with heart, spirit and class. Loved for her … pic.twitter.com/nwucb85vki

– Chennai Super Kings (@Chennaiipl) September 24, 2025

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